Per Wikipedia:
Ventura was born James George Janos on July 15, 1951[1][2] in Minneapolis, Minnesota, a son of George William Janos and his wife, Bernice Martha (née Lenz). Both of his parents were World War II veterans. Ventura has an older brother who served in the Vietnam War. Ventura has described himself as Slovak, since his father's parents were from what is now Slovakia; his mother was of German descent.[9][10] Ventura was raised as a Lutheran. He attended the Cooper Elementary School and graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1969.
Ventura served in the United States Navy from December 1, 1969, to September 10, 1975, during the Vietnam War era. He graduated in BUD/S class 58 in December 1970[11] and was part of Underwater Demolition Team 12[4][12]
Ventura has frequently referred to his military career in public statements and debates.[13][14][15] He was criticized by hunters and conservationists for stating in an interview with the Minneapolis Star Tribune in April 2001, "Until you have hunted men, you haven't hunted yet."[15][16]
In January 2002, Ventura, who never specifically stated whether he fought in Vietnam, disclosed that he had not seen combat. He was stationed at Subic Bay in the Philippines, and for this he received the Vietnam Service Medal, given to all military personnel who supported the war effort even though stationed outside South Vietnam.[17]
Regardless of what people may think. He served his country. Plain and simple. For that, he deserves respect.
Regarding the outlaying controversy, I have my opinions. And so do many others. The older I get, the more I try to walk in the shoes of others prior to forming opinion.
There are always two sides to every story...